Hey guys! First I want to say thank you for all the interesting info, and help I have received just by reading this forum for the past couple weeks.
I just bought my first MTB, a well used and loved 1994 Mt. Tamalpais from my neighbor. One of the selling features was the 40+ American states of dirt on it's frame. I will post pictures when I receive the bike; he's getting it cleaned and repaired. It is pretty scratched but in good working order and I note no structural problems. 6061T6 Al Frame, all original Shimano Kit, 26" Bontrager Wheels. The original Mag 10 fork has been replaced with a rigid fork, as he "blew out" three suspension forks in all on this bike, and finally decided he wanted something maintenance free.
I am a novice rider, and Arkansas has very hilly and rocky terrain. I am interested in having a good time, not winning any races; I'd like to learn to downhill and to technical climb. Is there any benefit to sticking with a rigid fork? If I were to swap it for a suspension fork, what would you recommend? I paid $200 for the bike and I would like to stay under $100 for the fork, I have seen Mag 10/20/21's, Judy's, Reba's for this price or I can get a new XC28 for $125. It is very difficult to compare their performance without ever seeing one; and I would like the advice of an experienced rider.
Thanks in advance!
-GB
Arkansas, USA
I just bought my first MTB, a well used and loved 1994 Mt. Tamalpais from my neighbor. One of the selling features was the 40+ American states of dirt on it's frame. I will post pictures when I receive the bike; he's getting it cleaned and repaired. It is pretty scratched but in good working order and I note no structural problems. 6061T6 Al Frame, all original Shimano Kit, 26" Bontrager Wheels. The original Mag 10 fork has been replaced with a rigid fork, as he "blew out" three suspension forks in all on this bike, and finally decided he wanted something maintenance free.
I am a novice rider, and Arkansas has very hilly and rocky terrain. I am interested in having a good time, not winning any races; I'd like to learn to downhill and to technical climb. Is there any benefit to sticking with a rigid fork? If I were to swap it for a suspension fork, what would you recommend? I paid $200 for the bike and I would like to stay under $100 for the fork, I have seen Mag 10/20/21's, Judy's, Reba's for this price or I can get a new XC28 for $125. It is very difficult to compare their performance without ever seeing one; and I would like the advice of an experienced rider.
Thanks in advance!
-GB
Arkansas, USA
